What’s it like to take classes online? See our video and read through our FAQs. Learn what our Student Services staff can do for you — from your very first conversation to completing your education goals. more »

What’s it like to take classes online? See our video and read through our FAQs. Learn what our Student Services staff can do for you — from your very first conversation to completing your education goals. more »

Undergraduate Certificate in Weather Forecasting

Program Summary

This is my Life

Philip Lutzak

Certificate of Achievement in Weather Forecasting

Brooklyn, NY

“Due to the results I got from the program, especially my online discussion group and my growing ability to write serious technical research papers, I have developed a permanent connection to the professional meteorological community.”Read more

Rick Schmidt

Weather Forecasting (Undergraduate Certificate)

Broomall, PA

“The exceptional faculty passed on their wisdom to me and I am returning the compliment by teaching it to the next generation of scientists. That's education!”Read more

Richard Coon

Undergraduate Certificate of Achievement in Weather Forecasting

Smicksburg, PA

“I know there are many other people with circumstances different from me who, for various reasons, couldn’t attend the college of their choice. The World Campus is the perfect way for people to do that. There’s no longer a reason for you to miss out on the education you always wanted.”Read more

Learn How to Forecast the Weather with an Online Weather Forecasting Certificate

Use the program’s innovative forecasting techniques and conceptual approaches to learn about meteorology, enrich your hobby, supplement your professional career, or build a preparatory foundation for future study or work. As a student in this program, you will have an opportunity to become a better-informed, critical consumer of weather-related news. Whether you are an amateur weather enthusiast or a weather-related industry professional, enrolling in this 12-credit certificate program can help you refine your skills to more effectively predict the weather.

Why a Weather Forecasting Certificate Online at Penn State

75 Years of Teaching and Research — The meteorology department at Penn State, with more than 75 years of rich traditions in teaching, research, and community service, is one of the most highly regarded programs in the United States.

Our faculty continue to pioneer research in areas such as weather communications, severe storms, tropical cyclones, weather risk, and more. This online program uses cutting-edge forecasting techniques as well as innovative conceptual models to help you learn more about the science of meteorology. Interactive, web-based animations can help you to develop operational forecasting skills and gain keen insights into how the atmosphere works.

You Can Earn College Credits — By successfully completing this certificate program, you will earn 12 college credits, which you may be able to apply toward a bachelor’s degree at Penn State or another accredited institution.

Who Should Apply?

Hobbyists, storm chasers, weather forecasters, or other professionals who rely on weather data to perform their job duties successfully can all benefit from this program, as well as:

sailing enthusiasts and pilots who rely on meteorological data to chart courses or plan flights

professionals whose businesses are affected by weather and who seek a deeper understanding of meteorology

secondary teachers in Earth science who aspire to enhance their understanding of meteorology

communication majors looking for a stepping stone into the broadcasting profession

weather enthusiasts seeking a preparatory foundation in order to pursue an undergraduate degree in meteorology

There are no formal calculus or physics requirements for entrance to the program.

Online Education at Penn State

Penn State has a history of 100+ years of distance education and more than a decade of experience in online learning. We strive to create an online learning environment that brings you as close to the face-to-face experience as possible. Learn more about Penn State World Campus.